The career decision process has been much studied using quantitative research methods and in the context of the university student. Little career decision research has been done in the context of the community college and using qualitative research methods. This phenomenological multiple-case study investigated the processes and influences undertaken by ten new community college students within their first three years following high school graduation as they made their career decisions. Findings indicated that these students were influenced primarily by factors such as personal interests and experiences. Parents were shown to have little direct influence on the career decision other than encouragement and support. Participants utilized a variety of decision making styles to arrive at their final decision and conducted very little research to inform or support their decision.

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